Last years runners-up Tim Price and Vitali head the Defender Burghley Horse Trials field at lunchtime on Friday after receiving a mark of 23.1 for their rideable and relaxed dressage test.Hes super. Hes a class dressage horse, and he has got all the ingredients for a really hot test, said Tim. Its funny, because sometimes hes been quite unrideable and scores really well, sometimes hes been really rideable and scores not so well, and vice versa, so its a little bit down to what the judges are looking for on the day.But from my point of view, rideability, super, relaxation, lovely. Just a great partnership on display. He went through all the motions other than one movement where he thought he was going to halt on the centre line or do a poo or something. The rest was spot on what I was looking for.Tim, who won the title here in 2018 with Ringwood Sky Boy, and Vitali hold the record Burghley dressage score of 18.7, a feat they produced in 2022.Vitali is a 15-year-old gelding who is owned by Joseph and Alex Giannamore.Podium changesOvernight leaders, Piggy March and MCS Maverick, have dropped to second, while Alexander Bragg and Ardeo Premier now sit in third.Tom Crisp and Dassett Rock Star, the 11-year-old gelding owned by Eve Mayes, Izzy Mayes and Louise Nash, were another pair to upset the business end of the leaderboard on Friday morning after they produced a test for 28.5 to slot them into fourth.I knew we could do it and Ive been working hard at home with Sune [Hansen] at Spring Hill Dressage. Hes helped me a lot just to be a bit more confident and really go for it, said Tom. If you make a mistake, you make a mistake, but I think youre better off setting off thinking you can go for it and make mistake than be a bit too careful, which is what Ive been guilty of for a few years. This horse is very capable of doing a good test and today it came together, so were really, really chuffed.He was just with me the whole way, kept his head in the game, nailed all of his changes, and its so easy just to miss one of them and then thats a mark gone, isnt it? Were very rarely at this end of the leaderboard after dressage. It feels a bit strange, but I can get used to it.The pair completed Badminton earlier this year in 51st position.Other new additions to the leaderboard after the Friday morning session were Max Warburton riding Deerpairc Revelry, who scored 29.1 for sixth, Katie Magee with Treworra, seventh on 29.3, and Laura Collett aboard Bling, who received a mark of 30.2 and sit ninth.Top 10 after dressage (at Friday lunchtime)The standings at the end of the dressage phase are:Tim Priceand Vitali on 23.1 penaltiesPiggy Marchand MCS Maverick, 25.7 penaltiesAlexander Braggand Ardeo Premier, 28.4Tom Crispand Dassett Rock Star, 28.5Will Rawlinand Ballycoog Breaker Boy, 28.8Max Warburtonand Deerpairc Revelry, 29.1Katie Mageeand Treworra, 29.3David Doeland Gallileo Nieuwmoed, 29.6Laura Collettand Bling, 30.2Harry Meadeand Cavalier Crystal, 30.5View the full overnight leaderboard hereImages by Tim WilkinsonRelated contentUS journalism student based with Ros Canter is youngest rider in Burghley fieldBurghley top 10 in pictures: Piggy March leads the way with new rideProperty director and cheap ex-racehorse make their CCI5* debutA very special horse: from unbacked five-year-old with a teenage rider to five-star formMeet the Burghley first-timer on a quirky mare who dislikes large crowds and refuses flatwork lessonsThe post Price pilots Vitali to top of dressage leaderboard on Friday morning appeared first on Your Horse.

A confidence crisis can happen to any level of rider, as Simon Grieve, who is contesting the 17th CCI5* of his career at Defender Burghley Horse Trials this week, can confirm.The 43-year-old rider is competing Evie Mackels Autograf, a first-timer at this level, after working with sports psychologist Charlie Unwin to get to the bottom of a loss of confidence that he experienced earlier in the eventing season.Ive had lots of crashes and lots of falls in the past, and then Ive got back straight back on and cracked on and been absolutely fine, said Simon. This time, I dont know why, just suddenly my brain said I cant do it anymore.Talking about confidenceThe confidence crisis was triggered by a run at Thoresby Park International Eventing Spring Carnival in March, where Simon went the wrong way in the showjumping and then retired Autograf on the CCI4*S cross-country course.I went to see a sports psychologist, and I had a couple of lessons with Chris Bartle, and changed my routine, because it was all me, said Simon. Then I went to Burnham Market, and felt like a human and we were amazing [they jumped clear]. So the season started off not so great, and weve really blossomed together.He [Autograf] was fabulous round Hartpury last time out so Im feeling like were prepared, in a good way, and really happy.When Simon talked about his nerves on his YouTube channel and social media, people started to message him, saying that they were experiencing the same thing.Ive had people from all levels, from doing a 70 all the way up to top level, saying, Im going through the same thing, but we dont talk about it and I think its really important that we do, he said.Chimp ParadoxDr Steve Peters Chimp Paradox is a psychological model thatexplains human behaviour through the interaction of three systems within the mind.The systems are: The emotional, impulsive chimpThe rational, logical humanThe data-storing computerThe Chimp can override rational thought when a rider becomes stressed or triggered, leading to self-doubt and confidence loss.My chimp was definitely having a chat, said Simon. He was saying, Youre rubbish and you cant do this, so I had to shut him up.Keep your chimp busyI was talking to my psychologist about Pau a few years ago, when I was riding a horse I was really not confident on. I remember having a conversation with someone who said youre allowed to be as scared as you like all week, until Saturday morning. On Friday night, you can ring everyone and say this is terrifying, Im so scared, and on Saturday morning, youre going to wake up and be professional and say, This is my job, Im going to do a good job and get on with it and thats exactly what happened. Its really random, but my psychologist said its actually a thing. You keep your chimp really busy and get it tired, and then off you go. So Im going to try and do that this week. I keep it busy by telling it how scared I am.A favourite type of horseAutograf is a 13-year-old bay that measures 16hh. He is very similar to several horses that Simon has ridden at the top level in the past.I was hacking around here yesterday with Will Rawlin and he said, You definitely have a type, dont you? Its a little brown horse. Drumbilla Metro went round here a couple of times and he was exactly the same.Simon added that Autograf is a cool kid hes very sure of himself and Im looking forward to Saturday.He added that the Derek di Grazia-designed cross-country course should suit his mount.Theyve got to be bold and brave. I was going to say big, and bold and brave, but actually hes small, so small and bold and brave, which he is. I think it should suit him.Main image by Tim WilkinsonRelated contentUS journalism student based with Ros Canter is youngest rider in Burghley fieldProperty director and cheap ex-racehorse make their CCI5* debutA very special horse: from unbacked five-year-old with a teenage rider to five-star formHow to watch Defender BurghleyThe post Top riders battle with nerves, too! How one Burghley rider overcame a confidence loss appeared first on Your Horse.

Learn to recognize common indicators of hoof stress, then work to eliminate or minimize their causesIn excessively wet ground conditions, the hoof wall soaks up moisture, allowing it to distort. | Photo: iStockWhen you head to the barn to care for your horse, are you often lost in your thoughts rather than focused on his subtle signs of wellness? Have you found yourself tossing him hay, dumping his grain, giving him a pat, and then rushing off to school or work?To help you spot potential problems before they become major issues, take a few minutes each day to be mindful of your horse and his well-being. Hoof health is paramount to his overall wellness, and a quick daily head-to-toe once-overwith emphasis on the toescan help you catch anything out of the ordinary.Then, if you spot something unusual or if something does squeak by and become an issue, you can work with your hoof care professionals, which include your farrier and/or a veterinarian with a special interest in hoof care, to combat the issue and restore your horse to soundness.Read on to learn what two veterinarians passionate about hoof careDebra Taylor, DVM, owner of Twin Creeks Podiatry, in Auburn, Alabama, and emeritus associate professor of equine medicine at Auburn Universitys College of Veterinary Medicine; and Tracy Turner, DVM, MS, Dipl. ACVS, ACVSMR, of Turner Equine Sports Medicine and Surgery, in Big Lake, Minnesotasuggest for identifying and dealing with the hoof stressors they encounter most frequently.The Big SixThe six things our sources see stressing their patients hooves most often include:1. Ground conditions (dry and hard or excessively wet)I think wet is even worse than hard and dry, because the hoof wall soaks up moisture and allows the hoof to distort more easily, Turner says.2. Immune stressYou can certainly get inflammation due to immune-related issues, says Turner, and the inflammatory process in the coronary band (at the hairline) can create abnormal horn and conditions.3. Mechanical stressI see this as ground reaction force (GRF, the force transmitted from the ground to the ground surface of the foot, into the hoof wall, and through the laminaethe Velcro-like tissues that attach the wall to the coffin bone within and bony column above) being applied to a distorted hoof, Taylor says. One example would be a hoof that cracks due to the GRF of shoeing a flared hoof.4. Excessive sugar in the dietThis is the most common stressor I see, Taylor says. Sugar in the diet turns on an abnormal endocrine event that weakens dermal (laminaethese reach out from the coffin bone to interlace with the epidermal laminae on the interior of the hoof wall) connections, which leads to either flaring or pulling the laminae apart, which can also lead to laminitis, Taylor says. Sedentary lifestyle and nonstructural carbohydrates lead to obesity, which in addition to hoof problems can lead to insulin resistance.5. Failure to recognize hoof distortionFor example, shoeing to accommodate a hoof flare rather than correcting the flare and then shoeing the properly shaped hoof, says Taylor.6. Expired hoof careThis involves hooves that arent getting trimmed regularly horses should be seen by farriers every four to eight weeksor shoes that have been left on too long.Hoof stress manifests as changes in shape, such as contracted heels. | Courtesy Dr. Tracy TurnerHow Do Stressors Manifest?The key words here: changes in shape. Watch your horses hooves for:Breaks in the hoof wall Though usually the result of a loose or pulled shoe (so, occurring at or near the ground surface), breaks in your horses hoof wall can also be the result of coronary band injury.Contracted heels The width of the frog should be 50% of the frogs length (the distance from the frogs base, or widest part, to its apex), Taylor says, and in the case of contracted heels, the base of the frog is less than half of its length.Cracks These can occur at the toe or quarter (side) of the hoof and might travel downward from the coronary band or upward from the ground surface.FlaresFlared hooves usually result from improper trimming or shoeing or from expired hoof care. The hoof wall flares outward away from the hoof structure at the ground surface and might result in separation at the white line (the soft, fibrous inner layer of the hoof wall, visible at the edge of the sole; this separation can also lead to fungal or bacterial infection known as white line disease).Uneven growth ringsFrom heel to toe to heel, the growth ring should be the same width, says Taylor. A bulging growth ring indicates increased GRF that has caused the tubules (that make up the hoof horn) to be misdirected and curl; the excessive strain will push the tubular horn back up the foot.Sheared heelsAn imbalance of the hoof, sheared heels manifest as one heel higher than the other, with the higher side usually having a more vertical hoof wall.Thin, flat soles Many people attribute thin, flat soles to breed, but Taylor attributes them to chronic solar hypoperfusion (lack of blood flow to the sole).Underrun (low or collapsed) heelsHorses can develop underrun heels if theyre conformationally predisposed to having low heels; their hooves have been shod or cared for inappropriately; or their hooves are incompatible with the climate they live inspecifically, one with excessive moisture. Left uncorrected, they can cause alterations in hoof wall growth that can be very difficult to correct and can predispose the horse to lameness problems ranging from bruised heels to navicular syndrome (aka podotrochlosis, or lameness from the bone or soft tissues in the podotrochlear/navicular apparatus at the back of the foot), Turner says.These signs of hoof stress can lead to problems with internal structures such as bones, ligaments, and tendons, resulting in lameness.Managing Hoof StressSole support can help even weight-distribution on stressed feet. | Courtesy Dr. Tracy TurnerOnce you determine that one or more hoof stressors have impacted your horses feet, youll want to confer with your hoof care professionals. With their advice, remedial care might include:RestSimply removing shoes, combined with time off from work, can improve some conditions caused by hoof stressors.Therapeutic trimming, shoeing, and hoof repairProper trimming and shoeing can alleviate or eliminate stressor-caused problems. For example, Turner says, shoeing to achieve proper balance and/or adequate heel support can often restore hoof health. And, sometimes, rebuilding the hoof with acrylic or urethane repair composites that alter coronary band stresses can improve hoof growth.Today, plastic and rubber shoes and boots have joined the ranks of steel, aluminum, titanium, and alloys. Turner says your farrier can offer advice based on your horses use and hoof quality; some materials reduce concussion while others have exceptional wear properties, and still others protect damaged hoof structures.Your hoof care team can also improve hoof health by using alternate attachment methods: Acrylic or polyurethane adhesives can replace nails on some shoes.Improved nutrition This is the biggie, Turner says, but its results also take the longest to see; hoof wall only grows a quarter of an inch per month. Biotin (a B-complex vitamin involved in hair, skin, and hoof health) is one supplement that can help. Look for a product that provides 15-20 milligrams of biotin per day.Taylor says some hoof supplements also provide copper and zinc. Those are really important, especially if you have superficial wall cracks or thrush that just wont go away.She says choosing feedstuffs, such as alfalfa, that have a low glycemic index (containing minimal sugars and nonstructural carbohydrates) also improves nutrition.Bedding changes If a horses feet are too wet, some beddings such as shavings can help dry them out, Turner says. Bedding can also make feet too dry and hard. Ask your farrier what the best course of action would be based on your bedding; one trend is to use hoof sealants that can protect the foot from moisture loss or gain.HosingI think too much hosing can create excess wetness, so horses that get bathed excessively can develop hoof problems, says Turner. IcingIf a horse is experiencing hoof inflammation, cold helps reduce it, says Turner, which can buy you time until you determine whats causing the inflammation. There are different theories on why it works; one is that by slowing circulation, icing inhibits toxins from going into the feet, which can be very helpful in the early stages of laminitis. Icing can also be a good pain reliever, enabling the horse to load the hoof capsule more correctly.Sole packing Although were still going to put most of the weight on the hoof wall, pour-in packings are designed to increase weight-sharing among structures, Turner says. Medicated packings can decrease inflammation and, depending on the composition, might also help eliminate infection such as in white line disease.Increasing circulation Different tools, such as (pulsed electromagnetic field therapy, or PEMF), electrical stimulation, and standing on magnets, can help increase circulation, Turner says.Taylor says exercise also increases circulation: Dr. Andrew van Eps of the University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine proved that movement increases perfusion. Youve got to at least hand-walk the horse if hes on stall rest, and to do that you have to find something comfortable for him to walk in.Administering pain-relieving medications Pain relief allows more normal application of stress (read: weight) because the horse will step on the foot without trying to protect it, Turner says. Pain is a protective mechanism, but if a horses pain is at a low scale, breaking the pain cycle can take stresses off of ligaments, tendons, joints, and so on because the foot is being loaded more correctly.Take-Away MessageIts relatively easy to tell when your horse is lame; its much harder to recognize indicators before lameness occurs. Having the ability to spot these problems and working with your hoof care team of professionals can save your horse pain and yourself frustration and lost riding time.

Section Key Points Understanding Rig Surgery "Rig" horses may have behavioral issues, fertility problems, and health risks due to undescended testicles. Rig surgery, more complex than routine gelding, is essential to remove retained testicle(s). Costs Associated with Rig Surgery Rig surgery costs range from $1,300 to $3,400 or higher, compared to $150 to $600 for routine castration. Additional expenses include diagnostics, hospitalization, and aftercare. Challenges and Risks Challenges include managing recovery with strict monitoring, high complication rates (up to 22%), and intensive postoperative care. Why Consider Rig Surgery? Recommended to prevent breeding, manage behavior issues, and avoid health risks. Benefits include improved behavior and performance. Practical Considerations Consult experienced veterinarians. Discuss full cost estimates and verify insurance coverage to manage financial expectations. Exploring Equine Products for Aftercare Post-surgery comfort supported by stable rugs and fly protection. Nutrition supplemented by everyday vitamins and supplements. Conclusion Rig surgery offers benefits for problematic stallions. Awareness of costs and recovery challenges, informed consultations, and support through equestrian gear are important for successful outcomes. What Everyone Needs to Know About the Costs and Challenges of Rig Surgery for Horses Many horse owners face the decision of opting for rig surgery when dealing with a problematic "rig" horse. This blog will unpack the intricacies of rig surgery, cost considerations, challenges, and practical advice for horse owners. Understanding Rig Surgery and Its Purpose A "rig" horse is a stallion with one or both testicles not properly descended. This condition can lead to behavioral issues, fertility problems, and potential health risks. Rig surgery, which is more complex than routine gelding, is necessary to remove the retained testicle(s) using specialized surgical techniques. Costs Associated with Rig Surgery According to the American Association of Equine Practitioners, routine castration usually costs between $150 to $600. In contrast, rig surgery is more expensive, typically ranging from $1,300 to $3,400 or higher. This increase is due to the invasive nature of the operation requiring general anesthesia and potential complications. Additional Costs: Diagnostic Work and Aftercare Extra expenses like ultrasounds, pre-surgical blood work, and hospitalization fees also add to the overall cost. Unlike routine gelding, rig surgery may involve a more comprehensive aftercare regime, elevating the financial burden. Challenges and Risks of Rig Surgery One of the primary challenges of rig surgery is managing the recovery period, which involves strict monitoring and controlled exercise regimes to promote healing. Postoperative Challenges The healing period can be intense, involving hand-walking horses several times daily. This exercise regime reduces potential swelling and speeds up recovery. Complication Rates Cryptorchid surgeries tend to have higher complication rates compared to routine castrations. Potential complications include infection, hemorrhage, and swelling. Studies report complication rates up to 22%, including scrotal infection and hind limb lameness. Why Consider Rig Surgery? Despite the costs and risks, rig surgery is recommended to prevent unwanted breeding, manage behavior issues related to retained testicles, and avoid long-term health risks like testicular cancer or torsion. Benefits of Surgery Once the surgery is successfully completed, horse owners can expect improvements in behavior and potentially enhanced performance and manageability, making the initial investment worthwhile. Practical Considerations for Horse Owners Before proceeding with rig surgery, its crucial to consult an equine veterinarian experienced in cryptorchid surgery. Understanding the full financial commitment is essential for planning. Detailed Cost Estimation Discuss with your vet the estimated full costs, including pre-op, surgery, hospitalization, and post-op care. This prevents unexpected expenses from arising during the process. Insurance Coverage Insurance often varies, with some policies not covering pre-existing conditions or elective procedures. Verify insurance terms to avoid unwelcome surprises. Exploring Equine Products for Aftercare Ensuring the comfort and well-being of your horse post-surgery can be supported with the right products. Consider exploring Jodhpur Collection, Horse Riding Boot Collection, and Horse Riding Gloves Collection for essential gear. Post-Surgery Comfort For enhanced comfort during recovery, check out our Stable Rugs and Turnout Rugs. Also, remain vigilant against flies with adequate Horse Fly Protection. Nutrition and Supplements After such invasive surgeries, ensuring your horses nutrition is crucial. Consider supplements from Everyday Horse Vitamins & Supplements to support their recovery journey. Conclusion Rig surgery, while complex and costly, can offer substantial benefits for problematic stallions. Awareness of the financial and recovery challenges, coupled with informed veterinary consultations, can lead to successful outcomes. Horse owners should prioritize their equine's health while managing expectations about costs and recovery. Explore our range of equestrian gear and supplements at Just Horse Riders' Gift Collection to support your horse's ongoing health and happiness.```html```

Taylor Vard has named the 2025 Team Ireland Equestrian Young Horse Jumping Squad that will compete at the 2025 FEI WBFSH World Breeding Jumping Championships taking place in Lanaken, Belgium from September 24th 28th.Speaking on his selections Taylor Vard commented: Id like to congratulate the riders and owners of all the horses selected for this Championship show. Congratulations also to the breeders themselves. Its a squad I am very excited about. There were some difficult choices to be made with so many good horses to choose from. This year over 135 horse and rider combinations completed the Expression Of Interest form for the Studbooks Team and looking for a wildcard entry also. There will be disappointment for some that werent selected but that shouldnt take away from any horses future.The loss of the WBFSH Studbooks Jumping Champions Trophy this year is particularly disappointing as it takes away another show where Irish-bred horses can show themselves off on a bigger stage. So now the focus is solely on Lanaken this year to bring home medals as my teams have done in 2023, and 2024.I want to thank the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine for their support of the young horse classes that help prepare the young horses for these Championships, and to the team that support me in Horse Sport Ireland.Head of Breeding, Innovation and Development with Horse Sport Ireland, Sonja Egan, PhD, added: Horse Sport Ireland is delighted to announce the team for the upcoming FEI WBFSH World Breeding Jumping Championships in Lanaken.We have a strong team competing across the 5-, 6- and 7-year-old categories and I wish to congratulate all breeders, riders, and owners on their selection to compete at this prestigious Championship show. It is a significant achievement for all combinations, and I commend their careful production through the various national young horse classes in aiming to compete in Lanaken.Thank you to Taylor Vard for travelling to view these horses across the country throughout the season and for his thorough and careful consideration of each combination who registered their interest.HSI, and I, are very much looking forward to supporting the Irish Studbook teams at the FEI WBFSH World Breeding Jumping Championships in Lanaken and wish all competing breeders, owners and riders the very best of luck!BP Lucky Clover and Niamh McEvoy will return to Lanaken for the second straight yearFor further information please click on the link below:https://lanaken.zangersheide.com/en/home5-Year-Olds (6):In alphabetical order.Boleybawn Alexa (ISH)2020 mare, by Grandorado TN (KWPN) out of Arina (BWP), by Crown Z (ZANG).Bred and owned by Boleybawn Horses Ltd., Co. Wicklow.Ridden by Harry Wood (GBR)BP Athena II (ISH)2020 chestnut mare, by Aganix Du Seigneur (SBS) out of Muze Abby Moyne (ISH), by Bamako De Muze (BWP).Bred by GBBS International Ltd., Co. Tipperary,Owned by Jenny Graham, c/o Ballypatrick Stables, Co. Tipperary.Ridden by Harry Wood (GBR)Castlefield Tycoon (ISH), (Formerly known as Ballyv Mr. T)2020 chestnut gelding, by Tyson (KWPN) out of Witty Luterra C (KWPN) by Lupicor (KWPN).Bred by Sean Stafford, Co. Wexford.Owned by Martin Egan, Co. Wicklow.Ridden by Jack Kent (IRL)Galwaybay Jim (ISH)2020 bay gelding, by Catoki (HOLST) out of Galwaybay Anika (ISH), by Kannan (KWPN).Bred by Justin Burke, Co. Galway.Owned by Eamon Walsh, Co. Waterford.Ridden by Jack Ryan (IRL)HHS Evora (ISH)2020 bay mare, by Stakkato Gold (HANN) out of Shannondale Naomi (ISH) by Darco (BWP).Bred by Maria Bravo, Co. Kilkenny.Owned by Bruna De Oliveira, Co. Kilkenny.Ridden by Mikey Pender (IRL)Tysons Lady Lux (ISH)2020 bay mare, by Tyson (KWPN) out of Lux Brigade (ISH) by Lux Z (HANN).Bred by Shay Hesnan, Co. Dublin.Owned by Martin Egan, Co. Wicklow.Ridden by Jason Foley (IRL)6-Year-Olds (7):In alphabetical order.Belle Mai (ISH)2019 mare by Luidam (KWPN) out of Coolgrange Cruising (ISH), by Furistos Trump (ISH)Bred and owned by Messrs Moxham & Brennan, Co. KilkennyRidden by Vincent Byrne (IRL)BP Lucky Clover (ISH)2019 grey mare by Mylord Carthago (SF) out of Arrabeg Clover (ISH), by Captain Clover (ISH)[TIH].Bred by GBBS International Ltd., Co. Tipperary.Owned by Gary & Leslie Hazelwood, c/o Ballypatrick Stables, Co. Tipperary.Ridden by Niamh McEvoy (IRL)BP Othello (ISH)2019 chestnut gelding by Ganesh Hero Z (ZANG), out Adelheid (KWPN), by Tygo (KWPN).Bred by Ennisnag Stud, Co. Kilkenny.Owned by Michael & Fiona Roche, Co. Tyrone.Ridden by Niamh McEvoy (IRL)GCS Angelina (ISH)2019 bay mare, by Aganix Du Seigneur (SBS) out of GCS Athena (ISH), by Vigo DArsouilles (BWP).Bred by Olivia Brennan, Co. Kilkenny.Owned by Olivia Brennan & Miguel Bravo, Co. Kilkenny.Ridden by Eoin Brennan (IRL)JM Forever Red (ISH)2019 chestnut gelding, by Tyson (KWPN) out of Real Caroline (ISH), by Luidam (KWPN).Bred by Jimmy Lawlor, Co. Kilkenny.Owned by John Lawlor, Co. Kilkenny.Ridden by Jason Foley (IRL)SDF Five Star (ISH)2019 bay gelding, by Big Star (KWPN) out of Lux San (ISH), by Lux Z (HANN).Bred by Samantha Fegan, Co. Louth.Owned by Carol Gee, Co. Kilkenny.Ridden by Eoin Brennan (IRL)Sumas Lumen (ISH)2019 bay mare, by Ard VDL Douglas (KWPN) out of Cillmhuire Imp (ISH), by Master Imp (TB).Bred and owned by Suma Stud, Co. Kilkenny.Ridden by Gemma Phelan (IRL)7-Year-Olds (6):In alphabetical order.Boleybawn Alvaro (ISH)2018 bay stallion, by Dominator 2000 Z (ZANG) out of Arina (BWP), by Crown Z (ZANG).Bred by Ronan Rothwell, Co. Wicklow.Owned by GBBS International Ltd. & Ronan Rothwell.Ridden by Niamh McEvoy (IRL)CSF Thomascourt Zena (ISH)2018 chestnut mare, by Zirocco Blue VDL (KWPN) out of CSF Princess Voorn (AES), by Prince Des Vaux (SF).Bred by Patrick Connolly, Co. Galway.Owned by Annemarie Dunne, Co. Carlow.Ridden by Vincent Byrne (IRL)Daliradas Boy (ISH)2018 bay gelding, by Cornets Prinz (WESTF) out of Dalriada (ISH) by Diarado (HOLST).Bred by Newberry E Wilson, Co. Tyrone.Owned by GBBS International Ltd., Co. Tipperary.Ridden by Niamh McEvoy (IRL)HHS Flonix (ISH)2018 chestnut stallion, by Aganix Du Seigneur (SBS) out of Echo Peach (ISH), by Clover Echo (ISH)[TIH].Bred by Brendan McSorley, Co. Tyrone.Owned by Marion Hughes & Brendan McSorley.Ridden by Mikey Pender (IRL)HHS Venice (ISH)2018 chestnut mare, by Emerald Vant Ruythershof (KWPN) out of HHS Fairy Fort (ISH), by Heritage Fortunus (HANN)Bred and owned by Bravo Hughes Ltd., Co. Kilkenny.Ridden by Mikey Pender (IRL)WHS King Lincoln (ISH)2018 chestnut gelding by Mr Lincoln B (ISH) out of Wineport Angel (ISH), by Lux Z (HANN)Bred and owned by Michael OSullivan, Co. Westmeath.Ridden by Kian Dore (IRL)Reserves:5-Year-Olds:BP Wishes (ISH) & Niamh McEvoy (IRL)CSF Seaview (ISH) & Alan OReagan (IRL)Kilbrackan Stakkato (ISH) & Robyn Moran (IRL)6-Year-Olds:Tullibards Pandora (ISH) & Cathal Daniels (IRL)BP Hello Emerald (ISH) & Leah Stack (IRL)KPCM Contessina (ISH) & Darryl Walker (IRL)7-Year-Olds:MHS November Rain (ISH) & James Brennan (IRL)Ceide Candy Heart (ISH) & Stephen Gibbons (IRL)GRC Casper (ISH) & Gemma Phelan (IRL)The post Vard names Young Horse Squad to compete at World Championships in Lanaken appeared first on .

It was all change on the dressage leaderboard at Defender Burghley Horse Trials on Friday afternoon six combinations entered the top 10 but it was a familiar face in Oliver Townend who leads the way. The two-time Burghley champion piloted the 11-year-old Irish mare Cooley Rosalent into top spot after the pair delivered a polished test for a score of 22, just ahead of defending champions Ros Canter and Lordships Graffalo.Shes a good girl. Ive been slightly caught out by the atmosphere. She was not as quite as Id have liked her to have been in there but shes ended up in the right place so far, said Oliver who won the title here in 2009 with Carousel Quest and in 2017 with Ballaghmor Class.There were a couple of frustrating things that shes brilliant at but we threw marks away around, like the halt and rein-back, but the work is becoming better and better.2. Ros Canter and Lordships GraffaloReigning Burghley and Badminton champions, Ros Canter and Lordships Graffalo, sit hot on the heels of the leaders, just 0.4 of a penalty in arrears after they received a dressage mark of 22.4.Its all about trying to eke out as many of those marks as we can but I was particularly thrilled with his changes today, said Ros, who is pregnant. We missed two of those at Badminton and it had always been something that we kind of get, but they wouldnt necessarily be 100% believable, and Ive worked hard on those since May, and today, they just felt really secure so thats what I was most pleased with. 3. Tim Price and VitaliLast years runners-up Tim Price and Vitali are third at the end of the first phase, having topped the leaderboard at lunchtime on Friday. They received a mark of 23.1 for their rideable and relaxed dressage test.Hes super. Hes a class dressage horse, and he has got all the ingredients for a really hot test. Its funny, because sometimes hes been quite unrideable and scores really well, sometimes hes been really rideable and scores not so well, and vice versa so its a little bit down to what the judges are looking for on the day, said Tim.But from my point of view, rideability, super, relaxation, lovely. Just a great partnership on display. He went through all the motions other than one movement where he thought he was going to halt on the centre line or do a poo or something. The rest was spot on what I was looking for.Tim, who won the title here in 2018 with Ringwood Sky Boy, and Vitali hold the record Burghley dressage score of 18.7, a feat they produced in 2022.Vitali is a 15-year-old gelding who is owned by Joseph and Alex Giannamore.4. Samantha Lissington and Lord SeekonigNew Zealands Samantha Lissington and Lord Seekonig, a 12-year-old bay gelding, occupy fourth on 24 despite a last minute bit change.He felt really secure and lovely to ride. I was actually in a spot of bother, umming and ahhing on what bit to have him in today, said Samantha.Typically he runs in a double bridle. Hes a quite strong horse and can sometimes be a little tricky to put together but Id recently come to the conclusion that maybe a snaffle might be better if the frame drops a bit low, then Im not punished as much as from some judges, which I think is what happened in Aachen, and we saw a bit of that in Luhmuhlen as well.Then I was like, you know what? If I dont do it now, Im not going to do it so lets just see what weve got in the arena. At the end of the day, this is not the be all and end all, were preparing for WEG next year so we needed to see and he really delivered so it was great.Samantha is also in 45thposition with Billy Alberto.5. Piggy March and MCS MaverickPiggy March riding MCS MAVERICK in the dressage phase of the Defender Burghley Horse Trials, in the park land surrounding Burghley House near Stamford in Lincolnshire in the UK between 3rd 7th September 2025NIKON Z 9 f/5.6 1/1250s 400mm ISO800Thursday leaders, Piggy March and her new ride, MCS Maverick, sit in fifth after dressage.The 2022 Burghley champion took over the ride on the 12-year-old son of Mill Law from Pippa Funnell earlier this year and the pair is contesting their first CCI5* together.He is a beautiful horse and hes got it all there. Hes had the best training in the world coming from Mrs Funnell so I havent got any excuses, said Piggy.The big thing with this horse is getting his brain and thats just what the two days of being here is.Weve been riding,lunging, riding, lunging, lunging. Hes not the finished article yet.His body isnt really strong where youd like him to be, but thats still going to develop a lot over the next couple of years.You cant work him too hard as he gets sore and fragile in his body, continued Piggy.Its a bit of work, bit of loose lunging, grazing, seeing people. That test was brilliant for him.For our early stages of us being together in an atmosphere like that Ill take it all day long and I dont want another go.6. Emily King and Valmy BiatsIn sixth place are Emily King and Valmy Biats, who are enjoying a great run of form having finished fifth at Badminton in May and third at Scone Palace last month, on 26.1Im very pleased with how he coped because hes a very sensitive horse and there was quite a lot of extra atmosphere following Mr. Townend, said Emily who has been riding her own, David King, Paula and David Evans 16-year-old Selle Francais gelding for five years. Hes super sensitive, but he really tried in there so I was really pleased. Its great to get off to a good start but theyve built a phenomenal track and its going to be a proper cross-country competition. 7. Christoph Wahler and DAccord FRHGermany hasnt fielded a Burghley entrant since 2018, but Olympian and world team gold medallist Christoph Wahler ended the drought when he entered the dressage arena this afternoon aboard DAccord FRH.They scored 27.2 to slot into seventh at this stage.He hasfelt great all week. Hewarmed up really, really well, and I thought can I please just manage to get this in the arena today? Thenhe listened to me all the way around,said Christoph of the 13-year-old gelding.Hes been to Badminton, Kentucky and Aachen, so hes been in these sorts of arenas and he doesnt usually get too excited.Ive been hoping to get a Burghley horse one day and now were here.The 31-year-old said the cross-country is one of the toughest tracks hes seen.Its more technical than I thought it would be. I was expecting many big fences. I was expecting stamina. It is very hilly here,he said.DAccord is incredibly fast, but hes never been here so I have absolutely no expectations other then to try and do my best to help him jump clear.8. Austin OConnor and Colorado BlueIrelands Austin OConnor and the experienced 16-year-old grey Colorado Blue pulled off a personal best at this level when scoring 27.8 to layeighth overnight.Weve struggled to break the 30 mark and its been quite frustrating at times, said Austin. We keep chipping away at it and hes in great form. I think hes improving, as well as myself.After warming up, Austin dismounted for a while to give the gelding a break.He loses concentration fairly quickly and I just thought he feels so goodin his body, Im going to get off his back for 10 minutes. It was something different, and it might not have come off, but I thought hopefully hell pick up where we left off.This is the first time this pair has scored a sub-30 at five-star level.When they won the Maryland CCI5* in 2023, it was on a dressage score of 33.7.Its great, because some people dont realise the energy, effort, support that goes in to just this one phase, added Austin.The horse deserves it because hes known as a cross-country horse, but hes never done a bad test. Its just not been quite up there.9. Alexander Bragg and Ardeo PremierAlexander Bragg riding ARDEO PREMIER in the dressage phase of the Defender Burghley Horse Trials, in the park land surrounding Burghley House near Stamford in Lincolnshire in the UK between 3rd 7th September 2025NIKON Z 9 f/5.6 1/1250s 200mm ISO1250Occupying ninth position are Alexander Bragg and Ardeo Premier, a 12-year-old Irish Sports Horse who finished second in theEventers Grand Prix at Hickstead this year, on a score of 28.4.Hes really versatile. Hes a real cool dude and multi talented, said Alex.Its always nerve wracking before you go in [to the dressage arena].You put hours and hours of training in to get to that point and you know what the horse is capable of, but actually delivering that and performing on the big stages is tricky, because youre dealing with the horses apprehension from outside distractions and the atmosphere, and youve also got to deal with your own and try and remain composed.I think if you get a goodcentre line, thats always helpful, and I knew which bits I could be brave at with him.Alex said the horses extended canterworkand flying changes are particularly good and were highlights in his test.His trot is not so expressive, but thejudgesat E and M can see those 8m circles. They can see accuracy, so my plan was just dont drop marks in those areas.My target was around a 70% test, a score of 30, so the fact that he exceeded that just shows his commitment and Im just thrilled with him.10. Tom Crisp and Dassett Rock StarTom Crisp and Dassett Rock Star, Eve Mayes, Izzy Mayes and Louise Nashs 11-year-old gelding, produced a test for 28.5 to round out the top 10.I knew we could do it and Ive been working hard at home with Sune [Hansen] at Spring Hill Dressage. Hes helped me a lot just to be a bit more confident and really go for it. If you make a mistake, you make a mistake, but I think youre better off setting off thinking you can go for it and make mistake than be a bit too careful which is what Ive been guilty of for a few years. This horse is very capable of doing a good test and today it came together so were really, really chuffed, said Tom.He was just with me the whole way, kept his head in the game, nailed all of his changes, and its so easy just to miss one of them and then thats a mark gone, isnt it? Were very rarely at this end of the leaderboard after dressage. It feels a bit strange, but I can get used to it.The pair completed Badminton earlier this year in 51st position.Top 10 after dressageThe standings at the end of the dressage phase are:Oliver Townendand Cooley Rosalent on 22 penaltiesRos Canterand Lorships Graffalo, 22.4Tim Priceand Vitali, 23.1 penaltiesSamanatha Lissingtonand Lord Seekonig, 24Piggy Marchand MCS Maverick, 25.7 penaltiesEmily Kingand Valmy Biats, 26.1Christoph Wahlerand DAccord FRH, 27.2Austin OConnorand Colorado Blue, 27.8Alexander Braggand Ardeo Premier, 28.4Tom Crispand Dassett Rock Star, 28.5View the full dressage leaderboard hereCross-country will get underway tomorrow, Saturday 6 September, at 11.30am when Harry Meade and Et Hopz du Matz take to the course.Images by Tim Wilkinson.Related contentTop riders battle with nerves, too! How one Burghley rider overcame a confidence lossUS journalism student based with Ros Canter is youngest rider in Burghley fieldProperty director and cheap ex-racehorse make their CCI5* debutA very special horse: from unbacked five-year-old with a teenage rider to five-star formMeet the Burghley first-timer on a quirky mare who dislikes large crowds and refuses flatwork lessonsThe post Burghley top 10 in pictures: Townend leads the field after dressage appeared first on Your Horse.

First results in from Defender Burghley Horse Trials great to see one of our graduates in the shake up of the 5yo final well done to Caroline harris and crackington#bshgraduate